Asia Academy #27 – After Fukushima: Nuclear Power and Elections in Japan
In 2011, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster became one of the worst nuclear accidents in history. It profoundly changed public debate about nuclear power in Japan. Yet nuclear energy remains an important part of the country’s energy policy, and politicians continue to face difficult questions about how to talk about it. But what happens when […]
Asia Academy #26 From Crypto Dreams to Lightstick Protests: Korean Youths Hyperconnected but Fragmented
How can a generation be more connected than ever and yet feel increasingly alone? South Korea offers a striking example. Its young people are among the most digitally connected in the world, but many are also facing growing isolation, uncertainty, and political disillusionment. On the 21st of May, Yoonai Han explores how youths in South […]
The U.S.-Japan Alliance and Taiwan
Tensions in East Asia are rising. Military activity around Taiwan has intensified, U.S.-China relations remain strained, and regional actors are reassessing their strategic positions. But one key player is often overlooked in public debate: Japan. What role would Japan play in a potential Taiwan contingency? How does Tokyo view its alliance with the United States […]
De kunst van het oorlogvoeren
Sunzi’s De kunst van het oorlogvoeren is een van de meest invloedrijke teksten uit de wereldliteratuur. Voor het eerst is dit klassieke werk nu rechtstreeks uit het Chinees in het Nederlands vertaald door Mark Leenhouts, winnaar van de prestigieuze Martinus Nijhoff Vertaalprijs 2025. Maar waar gaat dit boek eigenlijk over? En wat betekent Sunzi’s strategische […]
Asia Academy #25: Preparing for the Worst: Japan and a Taiwan Strait Crisis
What would happen if a crisis in the Taiwan Strait forced large numbers of people in Japan to flee their homes? How prepared is the Japanese government to protect and support them, and what can Europe learn from this? On 27 January, LAC Asia Academy welcomes Mina Pollmann, Japan Research Fellow at the Leiden Asia […]
Asia Academy #24 – North Korea and Russia’s Strategic Partnership: Implications for Europe
How is the intensifying partnership between North Korea (DPRK) and Russia reshaping regional and global security dynamics? And why should Europe pay closer attention to this rapidly evolving relationship? On Friday 12 December (16:00-17:00), we welcome Elena Guido, researcher at the Leiden Asia Centre, to present the report on the growing strategic cooperation between Pyongyang and […]